HOUSEBUILDER Bellway forecast a record-breaking set of annual results yesterday after profits, sales volumes and its order book hit all-time highs.

The group, which focuses on affordable middle-market properties said its operations in Wales were performing well, contributing to the strong results.

Bellway said the number of homes sold during the year to July 31 increased from 6,278 to 6,610 - the 13th year of uninterrupted growth.

With operating margins ahead of last year's level and with a 7% increase in average selling prices to £160,000, Bellway said annual results on October 19 would represent another record for the group.

The order book also stands at a new high of £587m - representing more than 50% of the current target for the new financial year - after Bellway decided to sell as far ahead as possible. As a result, it expects to further increase the number of homes it sells in the current year.

Bellway managing director Gareth Jones said there was still strong demand in Wales for new homes.